I was reading one of my favourite accounts in the bible as King Nebuchadnezzar sets up an image of Gold to be worshipped by all the leaders he has set up from all the places he ruled.
I have always focused on the incredible faith of these three men and how they would only worship God even when faced with death.
We all marvel at how God protected and was with them in the fire.
This morning, I was struck by the setup and opportunity presented to these men. They really had nothing to do with it. Nebuchadnezzar had made the image, called all the leaders of the land, set the terms, and started the music. I mean everyone of any importance throughout the great kingdom of Babylon and so many nations and cultures represented could not miss the only three who did not bow, but placed their faith solely in God.
Talk about getting people’s attention!
Daniel 3:28
Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king’s command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God
Amazing! As witnessed by all of the influence or power in the land. There is a God in heaven and He is able to save.
But it gets better.
Daniel 3:29
Therefore I decree that the people of any nation or language who say anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego be cut into pieces and their houses be turned into piles of rubble, for no other god can save in this way.”
I am someone who starts new churches. I am constantly looking for opportunities to bring Christ to people. I spend considerable time, money, and energy creating opportunities so we can engage people to get their attention so they may see and consider Christ.
Here Nebuchadnezzar had done everything. Daniel’s three friends were just living life and obeying God.
Then they were presented with a challenge to worship something over God, with incredible pressure—death on the line and thousands doing the other thing.
They chose to obey God and not compromise and God used their faith and obedience to declare His glory to the known world.
I am not saying I will not keep working on opportunities to bring Christ to others.
But am I simply living in obedience to Christ and obeying Him in difficult circumstances.
God may be providing the greatest opportunity for His glory as we trust and obey Him in challenging circumstances.
